New research shows the rate of children being diagnosed with autism continues to steadily rise and the condition is now considered almost twice as prevalent as it was believed to be only a decade ago.

New research shows the rate of children being diagnosed with autism continues to steadily rise and the condition is now considered almost twice as prevalent as it was believed to be only a decade ago.

A new report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, released Thursday, shows that one in 88 children has autism or a related disorder, compared with one in 155 in 2002.

“Some of the increase is due to the way children are identified, diagnosed and served in their local communities, although exactly how much is due to these factors is unknown,” says a statement from the CDC.

Autism spectrum disorders have been growing more common around the world for decades. While there is no fresh Canadian evidence, a 2006 study led by Dr. Eric Fombonne at McGill University found that 1 in 154 children has an autism spectrum disorder.

Suzanne Lanthier, executive director of the advocacy group Autism Speaks Canada, said the new U.S. findings are likely applicable on this side of the border, too, because “autism doesn’t discriminate based on geography.”

While Lanthier acknowledged more awareness and better diagnostic tools have contributed to more children being diagnosed, she argued that is only part of the story. More children are truly falling prey to the disorders, she maintained.

She said the increasing rate of diagnoses speaks to the need for more funding for research and supports.

The CDC found that autism spectrum disorders are almost five times more common among boys than girls. Its study shows 1 in 54 boys have been diagnosed with the condition, compared with one in 252 girls.

The estimates are based on data that looked at 8-year-olds during 2008.

Autism spectrum disorders are marked by a suite of symptoms, all arising from atypical brain development that results in problems with socialization, communication and behaviour. Although the disorder can be mild or severe, in general children with autism have difficulty communicating and making friends.